Role of macrophages in experimental malaria: V--Effect of ethyl palmitate on macrophages in Plasmodium berghei infected mice.

ABSTRACT

Ethyl palmitate (EP) was used as a macrophage cytotoxin. The response of P. berghei after exposing the macrophage to EP was opposite to what was seen with other agents like Silica, Antimacrophage serum and Freund's complete adjuvant. EP at dose of 5 mg and above decreased the survival period (SP), median survival day (MSD) and parasite density 24 hrs. before death (K values). Prepatent period (PP) was lower at doses 10 mg and 20 mg per day for 5 days before challenge compared to their corresponding controls. EP at a dose of 5 mg and above was found to be toxic to host, mice. EP in dosage of 3 mg per mouse administered 48 hrs. before challenge resulted in an increase in the mean survival period, survival rate (30%) and decrease in the mean parasitaemia per day when compared with the corresponding control. The interfering agents affected differently both the host and/or parasite. A proper modulation of the macrophage during the course of infection may help the host in surviving this lethal infection.